Fish River Canyon

Africa's largest canyon and the second largest in the world, at 160 km long and 550 m deep. Watching the sunset from Hobas and the five-day hike across it are classic routes in southern Africa.

Fish River Canyon lies in the Karas Region in the far south of Namibia, within the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. The canyon is about 160 km long, up to 27 km wide and 550 m deep, making it the largest canyon in Africa. Most visitors enter through the Hobas Gate at the northern end. The entrance fee is about N$150 per person plus a vehicle fee. From there, drive 10 km on a gravel road to the Main Viewpoint and the Hell's Bend viewpoint, where you can look down on the winding river and layered cliffs. The rock walls turn purple-red as the sun sets, which is the most spectacular time to see them. Short trails along the rim lead to other viewpoints. At the southern end, the Ai-Ais hot springs resort has natural thermal pools, about 1.5 hours' drive from Hobas. The famous Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail is about 85 km long and takes 4 to 5 days. It is open only from May to September 15. You must book in advance with Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) and submit a medical certificate. Hikers carry all their own gear. It is one of the toughest and most classic hikes in southern Africa. Accommodation nearby includes Hobas Campsite, Canyon Roadhouse and Fish River Lodge, which is on the western rim and good for sunrise. The drive from Windhoek takes about 7 to 8 hours. Trips are often combined with Lüderitz, Kolmanskop and the South African border. Note: there are no railings at the cliff edges, no supplies and no mobile signal. Avoid the midday sun, and never descend to the canyon floor outside hiking season.

Fish River Canyon

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Places to eat nearby